While Eubanks’ physical pain subsided after a few days, he was prescribed medications and continued to take them. His unwillingness to feel his emotional pain led to an opiate addiction that almost killed him.

He struggled with addiction throughout his 20s and went through multiple treatment centers.

He went on to serve as chief operations officer for Foundry Treatment Center and traveled the country speaking about his personal journey, as well as strategies for addressing the opioid crisis, according to his website.

Eubanks “lost the battle with the very disease he fought so hard to help others face,” according to a statement from his family obtained by KMGH-TV.

“Helping to build a community of support is what meant the most to Austin, and we plan to continue his work,” the statement read. “As you can imagine, we are beyond shocked and saddened and request that our privacy is respected at this time.”